“I would never recommend that individuals who don’t consume caffeinated beverages start incorporating them into their day for any reason.”
Tricia Psota, a member of the American Society for Nutrition with NBC News report
In recent years, the consumption of coffee has been hailed for its potential health benefits, including reduced risks of cancer, Type 2 diabetes, and heart disease, not to mention its ability to enhance energy levels and uplift mood. However, some research has emerged, linking excessive coffee consumption to ailments such as heart issues, stroke, and even dementia. This begs the question: how much coffee is considered safe?
What is Too much?
The Food and Drug Administration sets the limit at around 400 milligrams of caffeine daily. It is roughly equivalent to four or five 8-ounce cups. Additional caffeine effects such as irregular heartbeats and nausea typically don’t manifest unless one consumes about 12 cups daily.
Even staying within the 400-milligram limit of caffeine can cause unwanted side effects, such as anxiety and sleep disturbances. Therefore, it is important to be aware of the potential side effects of caffeine and to consume it in moderation.
“So I definitely stay below that FDA recommendation,” Tricia Psota, a member of the American Society for Nutrition
For pregnant or breastfeeding individuals, Psota recommended a lower caffeine intake of around 200 milligrams. Because of the potential transfer of caffeine to infants through breast milk. Research indicates that excessive caffeine during pregnancy can lead to lower birth weights in newborns. At the same time, a 2021 study revealed a reduced risk of gestational diabetes in those with moderate caffeine consumption during pregnancy.
“Coffee can pose risks to individuals with diabetes or cardiovascular disease, especially when added sugar or cream,” cautioned Nikki Cota, a dietitian at the Mayo Clinic in Arizona.
Determining when to curtail coffee consumption can be subjective, as explained by Jessica Sylvester, a spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.
“Some people might feel coffee’s negative side effects as they age, as the body’s ability to tolerate certain chemicals and foods evolves over time.
“Within those milligrams or cup of coffee recommendations, if you start feeling overly tired and the caffeine is not helping, then you’ve got to stop,
Jessica Sylvester, a spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics
Dr David Buchholz, a pediatrician at Columbia University Irving Medical Center, said that no amount of caffeine is healthy for adolescents. He recommended that teenagers limit their caffeine intake to no more than 100 milligrams per day. This is equivalent to roughly one 8-ounce cup of coffee. Buchholz said that the growing marketing of caffeinated energy drinks to children is concerning.
In Conclusion
Balancing the benefits and risks of coffee consumption is crucial. While moderate intake can offer advantages, exceeding safe caffeine limits may lead to health issues. It’s vital to respect individual tolerance levels and listen to the body’s cues. By staying within recommended boundaries.
